Iceland: Overview

From the Midnight Sun to the Northern Lights with some hot mud in between.

The country with the chilly name is rapidly becoming one of Europe's hottest destinations. Much of Iceland's popularity is due to its natural features, which include glaciers, hot springs, geysers, active volcanoes, portentous peaks and vast lava deserts.

In addition to its expansive landscape, Iceland has a rich history and folklore tradition. However, this appeal is tempered by the most expensive prices in Europe. That doesn't mean it can't be visited on a shoestring, but it does mean that budget travellers will have to work a little harder.

Fast Facts

Country Full Name

Republic of Iceland

Population

299,000

Currency

Name: Iceland Krona
Code: ISK
Symbol: Ikr

Electrical Plugs

European plug with two circular metal pins
220V 50Hz

Languages Spoken

Official: Icelandic

Time Zones

GMT/UTC 0 

Country Dialing Code

+354

Weights & Measures

Metric

Related Travel Stories

  1. Sounds Like Iceland

    Sounds Like Iceland

    podcast by David Atkinson, December 2006

    David Atkinson explores the latest Icelandic sounds at the Iceland Airwaves music festival. Yes, there is life beyond Bjork. Read the full article ›

    Tags: Festivals & Events • Music • Iceland

  2. Iceland Elves

    Iceland Elves

    podcast by Barbara Gruber, September 2007

    Is hearing believing? Listen in to the wild tales of Iceland's resident gnomes, dwarves, elves and hidden people. Read the full article ›

    Tags: Weird • Culture • Iceland

Read more Related Travel Stories ›

Traveller Tips & Discussion

Thorn Tree Forum

View more Thorn Tree threads ›

BLUELISTS blu,list to recommend a travel experience

View more Bluelists ›

Jump to Navigation

Shop Online

Advertisement

Hotels & Hostels

Booking hotels is simple with Lonely Planet. See our reviewed and recommended hotels in one place and book online. Browse hotels ›

Lonely Planet Newsletters

Updates, offers and inspiration - straight to your inbox.
Subscribe now ›

Popular Places

  1. Reykjavik

Disclaimer: We've tried to make the information on this web site as accurate as possible, but it is provided 'as is' and we accept no responsibility for any loss, injury or inconvenience sustained by anyone resulting from this information. You should verify critical information (like visas, health and safety, customs and transportation) with the relevant authorities before you travel.

Lonely Planet